Wisconsin Launches Campaign for First Responder Mental Health Retreat

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) - Law enforcement officers are at a significantly higher risk for suicide, facing a 54% greater likelihood compared to the general working population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In response, a campaign is underway to establish Wisconsin's first stand-alone mental health retreat designed exclusively for first responders in Iowa County.

The initiative gained urgency following the death of Eau Claire County Sheriff Ron Cramer in 2022, who had been dealing with work and health-related stress. Sheriff Dave Riewestahl reflected on Cramer's tragic passing, stating, "It was an eye-opening experience." He emphasized the importance of addressing mental health by prioritizing employee wellness within the department.

The proposed retreat, named the “Hidden Beauty Retreat,” is backed by the Behavioral Health Company Tellurian. The organization aims to transform a secluded 250-acre property in Iowa County into a center that will provide mental health and addiction treatment specifically for first responders. Riewestahl highlighted their current focus on wellness initiatives, which include mandatory health visits and a peer support team. He views the retreat as the next critical step in supporting first responders.

Tellurian CEO Kevin Florek noted that the plan involves raising $10 million to purchase and renovate the property and secure necessary licenses for operation. The center is expected to accommodate around 18 individuals and will offer tailored support from medical professionals.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love is leading the fundraising efforts for this initiative. Love, who lost his father, a police officer, to suicide when he was 14, has been actively sharing his personal story to advocate for the retreat. He believes the work being done by Tellurian is vital and calls for state-wide support to help realize this project. "The funding and the help and support is definitely needed from everyone in the state to help get this up and running fully," Love stated.